The English Football Association has reaffirmed its support for head coach Thomas Tuchel following England’s 2-1 defeat to Argentina in the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The defeat ended England’s hopes of reaching their first men’s World Cup final since 1966 after the Three Lions surrendered an early lead before Argentina scored twice late on to book a final against Spain.
Despite criticism of Tuchel’s substitutions during the closing stages of the match, the FA has maintained its backing for the German, who is expected to remain in charge through UEFA Euro 2028.
Tuchel signed a two-year contract extension in February after taking over as England manager in January 2025 on an initial 18-month deal aimed at leading the Three Lions to World Cup success.
England will co-host Euro 2028 alongside Wales, Scotland and the Republic of Ireland.
Speaking to BBC Sport after the defeat, FA Chief Executive Mark Bullingham praised the efforts of the players and coaching staff throughout the tournament.
“It is heartbreaking to be so close.
“The players and Thomas gave it everything today and the squad, coaches and staff could not have worked harder during the tournament.
“I would like to thank them all, and also give my heartfelt thanks to our wonderful fans here in the USA and at home.”
Tuchel also insisted he remains fully committed to leading England into the home European Championship despite the disappointment of missing out on the World Cup final.
“We keep on going with the contract until the home Euros,” he said.
“I’m looking forward to that even though right now it’s difficult to look that far ahead.”
The former Chelsea and Bayern Munich manager acknowledged the pain of the defeat but said reaching the last four remained a significant achievement.
“Of course, it’s a semi-final; a lot of big football nations are eliminated before the semi-final, so it is an achievement.
“No-one wants to hear that at the moment; me neither because we demand the most of ourselves.
“That’s just the nature of being competitive.”
England will now face France in Saturday’s third-place play-off, with victory securing their best FIFA World Cup finish since winning the tournament on home soil in 1966.
